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Grilled salmon fillets on white plate with lemon wedge and sauce being drizzled on top
Julia Morel

Air Fryer Salmon

This air fryer salmon is the weeknight dinner you'll actually want to make. With a crispy crust, juicy center, and less than 10 minutes of effort, it's fast, flexible, and bursting with flavor. No marinating or fancy prep needed—just season, slide it into the air fryer, and enjoy.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 fillets
Course: healthy air fryer recipes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 291.7
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salmon
  • 2 fillets salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) fresh or thawed, skin-on or skinless
Seasoning
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard/mayo as substitute
  • 1 tsp paprika smoked optional
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt adjust to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 spray olive oil spray or brush lightly with olive oil

Method
 

  1. Pat each salmon fillet dry with a paper towel to remove surface moisture. Check and remove any pin bones.
  2. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the top of each fillet using the back of a spoon or a silicone brush.
  3. Season each fillet evenly with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mist the top lightly with olive oil spray.
  4. Place the fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness.
  5. Check for doneness—the salmon should flake easily and be opaque. Rest for 2 minutes before serving. Add lemon if desired.

Notes

If your air fryer only fits two fillets, cook in batches. Variations include Maple Dijon Glaze, Cajun Rub, or Lemon Garlic Herb. Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days, or freeze tightly wrapped fillets. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Nutrition

Calories: 291.7kcal   Carbohydrates: 0.8g   Protein: 33.9g     Fat: 16.1g   Saturated    Fat: 2.4g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.9g   Monounsaturated Fat: 7.4g   Cholesterol: 93.5mg   Sodium: 75.6mg   Potassium: 848.4mg   Fiber: 0.2g   Sugar: 0.1g    Vitamin A: 197.7IU   Vitamin C: 0.9mg    Calcium: 27.6mg   Iron: 1.7mg